Overview
The Truckee River Legacy Trail follows its namesake river’s south side from downtown Truckee to the Glenshire neighborhood. The trail provides scenic views of the Truckee River and the High Sierra Crest. Access to several parks, as well as picnic tables, benches, and interpretive signage, is available throughout the route. The trail is popular among hikers, cyclists, birders, and fishers. The State of California, which has designated portions of the Truckee River as Wild Trout Water, manages nearly 11 miles of stream habitat to sustain wild trout species and provide recreational fishing.
For trail users opting for a one-way trip, rather than an out-and-back, they can start from the westernmost endpoint and head east, as there is a significant uphill grade heading west from Glenshire Drive. Trail users seeking no grade issues are advised to begin their journey at the pedestrian bridge at East River Street and head east. A bike repair station also is available at East River Street.
About the Route
Leaving off from the trail's western endpoint at the intersection of Palisades Drive and Old Brockway Road. At this signed intersection, take a left to follow a paved trail that heads west, makes a switchback, and then heads north farther into the park. This intersection also marks the start of the Brockway Road Trail, which heads 1 mile southeast and connects to additional trails in Martis Valley.
At 62 acres, Truckee River Regional Park features a ride-on miniature train, a disc golf course, gravel hiking trails, a rentable picnic shelter, river access, restrooms, and the region’s oldest man-made structure: the Stampede Circle of Stones. At least 500 years old, the circle was built by the Washoe or their predecessors, the Martis people, in Stampede Valley. The circle was moved to the regional park in 1969, shortly before construction of a dam flooded the valley.
After 1.9 miles, trail users have the option of taking a brief 0.4-mile spur to Riverview Sports Park. To enter the park, simply take a sharp right at the fork in the trail. Once back on the Truckee River Legacy Trail, the route continues another 2.9 miles to the trail’s eastern endpoint at Glenshire Drive, just before the Glenshire neighborhood sign. This segment includes a bridge over Martis Creek.
Connections
The Truckee River Legacy Trail is part of the Tahoe–Pyramid Bikeway.
The Truckee River Legacy Trail runs between Old Brockway Rd. (Truckee) and 14172 Glenshire Dr (Truckee), where parking is available.
Parking is also available at:
Visit the TrailLink map for detailed directions.
It's such a beautiful trail. My only concern is that the dogs are not on leashes, they are allowed to run around freely. Yes they are adorable, playful whatever, but they have teeth!
Went biking with my 11 year old on 8.12.17, Saturday. We started at the trail head on the steep hill from the Truckee River Regional Park's parking lot. We rode a total of 8.36 miles downstream and back. The landscape, wildlife, countless bird species, river, and sky were a breath of fresh air for us. Segments of shady trees in between sunny spots to rest at as well as benches to sit on and take in the surrounding beauty. Bring lots of water and snacks. Highly recommended. #leaveonlyfootprints #packoutwhatyoupackin, #LoVEarth
This trail is beautiful! It runs along the Truckee river, away from roads and is a great ride for the entire family. It is fairly flat, and the Truckee river is gorgeous during this incredible spring thaw we are experiencing. There are bike rentals available in downtown Truckee at Bike Truckee.
I rode this trail today. It was in perfect shape and the views are wonderful. Suitable for any kind of bike.
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